20 Seeds w/Instructions
Leonotis nepetifolia is also known as annual Lion’s Ear, Klip Dagga and Christmas Candlestick.
This member of the mint family reaches 4 to 8 feet tall with upright stems and triangular-shaped leaves. The exotic spiky flower heads are covered with 1-inch-long hairy trumpet-shaped blossoms.
It is an evergreen perennial if protected from frost (zones 9-10). In colder climates it can be grown it in a pot and bring it indoors over the winter. Or just grow it as an annual each spring, saving the seed in the Fall. It prefers full sun to a half-day of sun. It's drought-tolerant once established, although it looks best with occasional watering and feeding.
In Africa, where this Mint relative originates, the flowers are smoked for a mild euphoric effect. We don’t have personal experience with this and grow Lion’s ear for it’s ornamental value. Makes a very unusual addition to any cut flower bouquet. Attracts masses of butterflies and small birds.
